Massachusetts · Titles & temp tags

How duplicate titles and the 7‑day plate transfer work in Massachusetts.

Dealer‑focused rundown of RMV duplicate‑title applications and the 7‑day registration transfer rule that many Massachusetts buyers rely on when swapping plates.

High‑level dealer workflow Pairs with official Massachusetts references Not legal advice

Duplicate / replacement titles

Massachusetts duplicate title overview

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) issues duplicate titles on request using its Application for Duplicate Certificate of Title or the combined Registration and Title Application.

Gather the VIN, current title number if known, owner information, and lienholder details.
Have the titled owner(s) complete and sign the appropriate RMV application form.
Submit the application and fee by mail, at an RMV Service Center, or through an approved registration partner.
When taking trades or auction purchases, decide up front whether the prior owner or your store will file the duplicate.

Temporary tags / permits

The Massachusetts 7‑day plate‑transfer rule

Massachusetts does not rely heavily on generic paper temp tags. Instead, many customers use the 7‑day registration transfer law.

When a customer sells, trades, or otherwise disposes of a vehicle, they have up to 7 calendar days to transfer their existing registration and plates to a newly acquired vehicle of the same type.
The old vehicle must truly be disposed of; the plate cannot stay on a vehicle the customer still owns.
Within the 7‑day window, the customer must complete registration of the replacement vehicle with RMV.